Evening edition
Daily current affairs for UPSC, BPSC, State PCS and PSC exams.
Why in news?
The Central Information Commission (CIC) ruled that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is not a 'public authority' under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005.
Key points
- The ruling means that the BCCI is not obligated to provide information under the RTI Act.
- The CIC based its decision on the fact that the BCCI is not owned, controlled, or substantially financed by the government.
- The BCCI is a private autonomous body registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act.
- This decision impacts transparency and accountability mechanisms for the cricket board.
Background & context
The RTI Act, 2005, grants citizens the right to access information from public authorities. Public authorities are defined under Section 2(h) of the Act, encompassing bodies established by the Constitution, Parliament, State legislature, or government notification, or those owned, controlled, or substantially financed by the government.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The BCCI is registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: Governance, Transparency and Accountability, Right to Information Act.
Why in news?
An Indian court has directed Apple to fully cooperate with investigators in an antitrust case concerning the iPhone apps market, rejecting Apple's request to halt the proceedings.
Key points
- The Delhi High Court ordered Apple to cooperate with the Competition Commission of India (CCI).
- The CCI is investigating allegations that Apple abused its dominant position in the app market.
- Apple had sought to pause the case, challenging the law governing antitrust penalties.
- The court asked the CCI not to pass a final order until at least July 15.
- This is part of a global trend of regulatory scrutiny faced by tech giants.
Background & context
Antitrust laws are designed to prevent anti-competitive business practices. In India, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) is the statutory body responsible for enforcing competition law.
★ Prelims fact capsule
Apple's market share in India is around 9%, up from 4% two years ago.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper III: Economy, Competition Policy, Regulation of Digital Markets, Abuse of Dominant Position.
Why in news?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Oslo, Norway, for bilateral talks and the 3rd Nordic-India summit, focusing on trade, energy, and technology.
Key points
- The visit aimed to strengthen trade and investment ties between India and Norway.
- Norway is a major oil and gas exporter, making energy supplies a key discussion point.
- The 3rd Nordic-India summit included leaders from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Denmark.
- Discussions also covered global issues such as conflicts in Ukraine, Iran, and Gaza.
- Earlier, India and Sweden elevated their relationship to a Strategic Partnership.
Background & context
Nordic countries are known for their advanced economies, focus on sustainability, and innovation. India seeks to enhance cooperation with them in areas like renewable energy, blue economy, and digital technologies.
★ Prelims fact capsule
The 3rd Nordic-India summit was previously cancelled due to terrorist attacks and conflict.
✎ Mains relevance
GS Paper II: International Relations, India and its Neighbourhood, Bilateral Groupings and Agreements, Foreign Policy.